The Mercedes 35 hp is viewed as “the prototype of all modern passenger cars”. It marked the transition from the "motor carriage" to the motor car as we know it today. It was the first car to have the Mercedes name.

This car introduced a long wheelbase, wide track, low centre of gravity and angled steering column, which were technical innovations at the time. The construction principle of "engine at the front, final drive to the rear wheels" established itself in the long run as the conventional drive layout.